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Other sources of financial aid for the repair of churches

Although your church may not be a Scheduled Ancient Monument, it will probably have been included in the Statutory Lists of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest and it may be in a Conservation Area. This information, with its category (if listed) and possibly a useful brief description, may be obtained from the Planning or Development Department of your local Council. It is always desirable to ensure your local representatives are aware of your problem and kept informed.

Funds for Historic Buildings

The bext place to start is with the website Funds for Historic Buildings established and maintained by the Architectural Heritage Fund. As well as listing sources of funding the site gives advice and helpful information.

Denominational Trusts and Funds exist which are able to assist the repair, restoration and improvements of church buildings, halls and ministers' residences. Information may be obtained from the denomination's headquarters or year book.

Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme

If your building is listed, VAT on repair works and associated fees is recoverable under the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme. All VAT has to be paid in full and then VAT on repairs recovered. For further information see www.lpwscheme.org.uk, or ring 0845 601 5945, or write to PO Box 609, Newport, Gwent. NP1 0 8QD.

Historic Scotland & Heritage Lottery Fund

For repair work to listed buildings between £10,000 and £250,000, Repair Grants for Places of Worship in Scotland are made jointly by Historic Scotland and the Heritage Lottery Fund. Further information on the websites or from Historic Scotland, Longmore House, Salisbury Place, Edinburgh EH9 ISH or the Heritage Lottery Fund, 28 Thistle Street, Edinburgh EH2 1EN, telephone 0131 225 9450.

Other grants may be available from Historic Scotland and the Heritage Lottery Fund depending on the nature of work and the cost.

Local authorities

Local Authorities have the power to make grants or loans toward the repair and maintenance of buildings considered by them to be of historic or architectural interest. These need not be listed buildings. Such grants are usually available through the local Planning Department.

Landfill Tax Credit Scheme

If your church is in the vicinity (ten miles) of a landfill site, see if you are eligible under the Landfill Tax Credit Scheme. Further information from ENTRUST, 60 Holly Walk, Royal Leamington Spa, CV32 4JE.